Enhancing the insulation of your house doesn’t always require removing walls or undertaking a complete remodelling. With basic tools, minor improvements, and effective methods, numerous inexpensive and efficient ways exist to enhance the thermal performance of your home.
Here’s how you can increase your home insulation with minimal effort, whether you’re looking to reduce your energy expenses, stay warmer in the winter, or reduce noise.
1.Seal Drafts and Air Leaks
Sealing air leaks around windows, doors, and vents is one of the most efficient and cost-effective means of enhancing insulation. Because drafts make up a large share of energy loss, utilising weather stripping, caulk, or door sweeps can have a noticeable impact.
Inspect the home utilities, attic hatches, and baseboards where small gaps can occur easily. Sealing these leaks prevents dust and allergens from entering, thereby enhancing indoor air quality and improving insulation.
2. Use Expanding Foam and Insulating Materials
When it comes to insulation, hard-to-reach areas, such as wall cavities, crawl spaces, and near pipe penetrations, can be especially challenging. This is where expanding insulation foam works well. Contact with this foam causes it to expand and fill gaps and voids, sealing them and reducing drafts and heat transfer.
It’s also effective in sealing gaps around window frames and under sinks where other materials might not reach. Be mindful of the amount applied, as it expands significantly. Some products are also rated for soundproofing, offering additional benefits in noisy environments.
3. Upgrade Window Treatments
Windows are notorious for letting heat out in winter and letting it in during summer. Though it can be pricey to change your window coverings.
By blocking drafts and sunlight, thermal or insulated curtains help maintain consistent indoor temperatures. As they hold air in their honeycomb shape, acting as a barrier between the window and your interior. Cellular shades are also highly effective.
4. Add Area Rugs and Heavy Curtains
Particularly in older houses with little underfloor insulation, hardwood or tiled floors can contribute to heat loss. Thick area rugs can insulate the floor, eliminate cold breezes, and enhance room comfort.
Likewise, thick curtains provide an additional layer of thermal resistance and also block sunlight. So, consider combining them with curtain liners for even improved insulating properties.
5. Insulate the Attic and Basement
Adding insulation to your attic floor or basement ceiling can also have a significant effect, even without any major building work. Fibreglass insulation in rolls or batts is not too hard to install, so get it done.
Ensure vents are clear. Additionally, seal any gaps around lighting fixtures or ductwork for attics. In basements, foam board insulation can help retain heat and improve comfort by insulating rim joists and walls.
Final Verdict
With a few smart upgrades and the right materials, you can enhance your home’s insulation without tearing it apart. Prioritise closing air leaks by using expanding insulation foam and upgrading soft furniture. Thus, you can make your house more energy-efficient year-round.
